Operating for nearly 100 years the C&O Canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River. Still bustling with activity, the C&O Canal National Historical Park welcomes over 6 million visitors to the park each year. There is a wealth of opportunities for education and outdoor recreation along its 184.5 miles and 20,000 acres. Mark your calendar to attend these popular events scheduled to take place on the C&O Canal and in nearby Canal Towns. Shop our
C&O Canal Collection to dress for success.
April 21-24, 2022
Held in Big Pool, Maryland, this Market Fair features the best period artisans, craftspeople, and sutlers together with an 18th Century encampment. Explore Maryland's French and Indian War era stone fort built in 1756. See hundreds of reenactors and 18th century sutlers (vendors) selling 18th C. period wares: paintings & prints, clothing & fabric, books, camp gear, flintlock rifles, fowlers, muskets, powder horns, bags, fireplace & cooking hardware, lanterns, copperware, etc.
July 9-12, 2022
In its 35th year, this ride is a fully supported four-day ride on the C&O Canal. It begins in Cumberland, MD and rides to Mile Marker 0 in Washington, DC. 184.5 miles of no hills, no headwinds and no cars. Plenty of food, lots of support, ride at your own pace, well organized. If you'd rather not ride the full length then check out the one-day option. This is an annual benefit ride for San Mar Family and Community Services, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that maintains national accreditation and has provided services to children, families, and the community every day since November 8, 1883!
August 27 & 28, 2022
This festival is held in Williamsport, MD at Byron Memorial Park. Details to be released soon on the Facebook page for Main Street Williamsport.
September 9-11, 2022
Held on historic Washington Street in Downtown Cumberland, Maryland. Heritage Days has something for everyone! History, arts and crafts, festival food, music, children’s activities, tours and more!
September 17, 2022 - 12-5pm
Celebrate the largest native American fruit with tastings, ice cream, jam making, music & fall fun for everyone. All ages welcome. Food forest tours, plant walks, demos and more! The event is all outdoors with plenty of space and flow. The various activities will be spaced out, there will be hand sanitizer stations, and if still required will ask folks to wear masks. Get your tickets early! Details to be released soon.
October 1 & 2, 2022 - 10am-5pm
In its 39th year, this two-day festival takes place in Brunswick, MD. Enjoy food, drink, live music, games, craft vendors, shopping, and restaurants in this small town rich with railroad history! Rain or Shine.
October 22, 2022
Choose from a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K or Kids Fun Run. Proceeds from these races will be placed in the Freedom's Run Grant, where worthwhile community projects are funded. The entire marathon course is encased in National Park Land, with some brief detours through the country roads and preserved history towns that connect them. Participants will run along the C&O Canal, over a country road to Antietam Battlefield, and finish with a downhill into Shepherdstown, WV.
November 19, 2022
This race was first held in the Spring of 1963. It was one of numerous 50 mile events held around the country as part of President John F. Kennedy’s push to bring the country back to physical fitness. Register today to be part of this epic race! The course runs along the Appalachian Trail, the C&O Canal, and finishes on rolling paved country roads to Williamsport, MD. Photo credit Sam Judge
Author: Maria Lane
Maria Lane is Co-owner of The Road Trip Mercantile. She enjoys the creative process of designing merchandise to promote the C&O CANAL and the GREAT ALLEGHENY PASSAGE. View and shop her latest creations HERE.
